The Hays County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in identifying a man who "forcibly entered" Carpenter Hill Elementary near Buda early Friday and vandalized the campus.
The incident occurred in the early morning hours Friday and involved an unidentified male who is believed to have been operating a dark colored passenger car. According to officials, the suspect caused "extensive damage" to the interior of the school.
Tim Savoy, Hays CISD public information officer, said in a statement damage to the campus was "significant." District officials are currently working with insurance adjustors to determine the exact cost of damages. Savoy said initial estimates place the cost of damage and clean up in the "tens of thousands of dollars," possibly reaching more than $100,000.
According to Savoy, all of the damage was confined to the common areas of the first floor of the campus. The suspect, or suspects, did not enter any classrooms or steal anything, Savoy said. The majority of damages caused by the suspect should be covered by insurance. Authorities have not released further details on the type of damage at the campus.
"It is frustrating and disappointing to have this happen,” said Hays CISD superintendent Eric Wright in a statement. “Our teachers and campus employees are busy getting the school ready for classes to start at the end of the month. It is a time of excitement for a new school year. Having someone break in to the school and vandalize it just simply makes me angry."
Savoy said Hays CISD is working with a restoration and cleaning company to have the campus ready for teachers and students to return. The first day of school is Aug. 27.
"“Since news has spread in the community about the vandalism, the campus and district have received offers of assistance from parents and citizens,” said Wright. “I want to thank them for their generosity. We will keep them posted moving forward. At this time it looks like we’ll be OK.”
The Hays County Sheriff's Office is investigating this incident. Anyone who recognizes the suspect, or might have information regarding this case, should contact the Hays County Sheriff's Office at 512.393.7875 or Crime Stoppers at 800.324.8477.
